Is the Tory leadership race overshadowing the general election?

In a recent speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of every vote in the upcoming election, highlighting the potential impact on preventing an unchecked Labour government. This sentiment is echoed by Conservative peer Robert Hayward, who believes the election is much closer than perceived, citing past accurate predictions despite conflicting polls. Hayward also points out shifts in voter support, such as Muslim voters favoring independent candidates over Labour and concerns about racists backing Reform UK affecting their vote share. Feedback from Conservatives in the North and Midlands, particularly in the red wall areas, supports Hayward's analysis of the election landscape. A JL Partners poll indicates a significant increase in Reform UK's share of Labour's 2019 vote, potentially impacting the overall outcome. The race for Downing Street intensifies as Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer ramp up their campaigning efforts, with a focus on key constituencies and traditional Tory heartlands. As the election draws near, candidates are not only vying for parliamentary seats but also positioning themselves for potential party leadership contests. The Prime Minister and Labour leader are targeting specific regions to secure support, while other party leaders are concentrating on key constituencies and target seats. The campaign trail remains active with various political figures engaging in question-and-answer sessions, stump speeches, and campaign events to sway undecided voters and solidify their positions before polling day.